Contemporary History

Teacher(s)

Piret Bérengère;

Language

French

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

The overall objective of this course is to provide a series of points of reference and keys for reflection on the history of Europe and its relations with the rest of the world during the 20th century. It should allow students to: 1° acquire basic factual knowledge and understanding of European History during this period; 2° develop in-depth knowledge of specific historical events and relevant historical personalities of European history during this period; 3° develop a critical reflection on the geopolitical and international issues, on the one hand, and political and social issues of European history during this period, on the other; 4° synthesize and criticize documentary sources related to thematic case studies.

Content

The course provides an overview of the key historical and political events and evolutions that shaped the Twentieth Century. The course begins by detailing WWI, the events leading up to the Second World War and the emergence of a bipolar world.

The seminars are dedicated to the analysis of historical sources – films, documents, testimonies – to deepen the lectures

Teaching methods

The course consists of ex-cathedra presentations and seminars on selected issues.

Presentation material (slides) will be made available. Personal notes taken during the lectures are required and individual reading of a reference book (or part of it) is strongly needed.

Evaluation methods

A written examination (2h) on topics developed during the lectures and on the required reading.
An essay based on the seminars and personal research

Faculty or entity

ESPB